New Edinburgh-based chairman elected at Marks & Clerk

Dr Maureen Kinsler has been appointed international chairman of Marks & Clerk, an intellectual property service provider, and the UK’s largest firm of patent and trade mark attorneys.

From Renfrew, educated in Glasgow and now based in the firm’s Edinburgh office, Dr Kinsler has been elected for a three year term and will be working with the global boards to lead the business.

Dr Kinsler, who joined Marks & Clerk in 2002 and was made partner in 2004, said she intends to place a renewed focus on SMEs in her new role, aiming to drive fresh innovation across Scotland and the world.

She has long played an active role in the management of the business, including oversight of the international marketing and business development functions. She has also been integral to the development of the firm’s practice in Scotland and its offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen.

A Chartered and European Patent Attorney, she specialises in physics, electronics and software, working with multi-national, SME and public sector clients (including many of Scotland’s universities).

On taking up her position, Dr Kinsler said: “This is a very exciting time to become chairman of Marks & Clerk’s international business. We have a young partnership, a strong reputation and a wide and diverse client base.

“This is particularly the case in Scotland, where we support a whole range of local SMEs, multi-nationals and universities.

“All companies start out life as an SME, many of which grow to become global players, and so a key focus for all offices in Scotland and internationally is the local marketplace.”

She added: “We are also keen to continue working with international IP bodies and contributing to the sector and development of the profession.

“Our clients, both here in Scotland and elsewhere, face an increased need for international, sound IP advice as globalisation continues and technological development accelerates.

“It is now my privilege to lead the business as we continue to work with existing clients and to develop and grow our client portfolio. As a uniquely international firm with unrivalled strength in breadth and depth, it is our pleasure to help clients meet and exceed their commercial objectives.”

Dr Kinsler was elected after Keith Hodkinson stepped down from his position as international chairman. Birmingham-based Dr David Ward was also elected UK managing partner as Glasgow-based Dr Bob Naismith stepped down from the position. Both Mr Naismith and Mr Hodkinson will be retiring later this year.